Northwest NEWS

June 25, 2001

Fireworks illegal in city limits

WOODINVILLE - As a reminder, a city ordinance has been in effect since June 21, 2000, banning the sale and discharge of all fireworks within the city of Woodinville. Even those considered to be "safe and sane" fireworks are illegal to either discharge or sell within the city.
The ban was a cooperative effort between the Woodinville City Council and Woodinville Fire & Life Safety District to put the discharge of fireworks into the hands of the professionals in an attempt to reduce the injuries and damage that fireworks cause every year.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 1999 about 8,500 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks.
Approximately 55 percent of the injuries were burns, and most of the injuries involved the hands, eyes and head. About 45 percent of the victims were under 15 years of age. If you have an emergency involving fireworks or want to report the illegal discharge of fireworks, call 911. Depending on the nature of the call, either the fire or police department will respond.
Have a safe and fun Fourth of July by attending Woodinville's Family Fireworks Celebration at JB Instant Lawn. Event brochures are available by calling Parks and Recreation (425) 398-9327.
Event information can be found on the city's website at www.ci.woodinville.wa.us.